Angola and Namibia Agree to Accept Repatriation of Illegal Migrants
In a significant move prompted by the UK government’s stringent immigration policies, Angola and Namibia have consented to accept back their nationals who are in the UK illegally, including those convicted of crimes. The decision comes following a warning from the UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, about possible visa restrictions for these countries if they did not comply.
Visa Sanctions Against the Democratic Republic of Congo
In addition to Angola and Namibia, Mahmood has also signalled potential visa sanctions against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for its lack of cooperation in repatriating its citizens. The Home Office described Angola and Namibia as meeting high standards in improving their repatriation processes, while criticising the DRC for failing to do the same.
As a consequence of its non-compliance, the DRC’s officials and influential individuals will now have to go through standard visa application procedures, having their previously expedited visa services rescinded. Mahmood expressed that if the DRC does not enhance its cooperation, further penalties, including a complete cessation of visa issuance, may follow.
Home Secretary’s Statement
Mahmood stated, “We expect countries to play by the rules. If one of their citizens has no right to be here, they must take them back.” She thanked Angola and Namibia for their partnership and urged the DRC to take similar actions to avoid losing the privilege of easier access to the UK.
The Home Secretary reiterated that these measures are part of the broader efforts to reinforce UK border security and increase the deportation of individuals without legal permission to reside in the country. “This is just the start of the measures I am taking to secure our border,” she added.
Current Immigration Statistics
In support of these initiatives, the Home Office reported that since July 2024, nearly 50,000 individuals without valid residency have been deported, marking a 23% rise compared to previous periods. Additionally, over 7,000 foreign national offenders have been returned to their countries during the same timeframe.
Background
The UK government is currently undergoing considerable reforms in its immigration policy, aiming to streamline processes for removing illegal migrants and addressing the presence of foreign national offenders. These recent developments reflect the ongoing challenges the UK faces with immigration and the government’s determination to enforce its legal framework more rigorously.
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